Niger Tornadoes head coach Umar Tyabo Abdullahi has declared his side's 2-1 home win against Ikorodu City among the most significant results of their Nigeria Premier Football League campaign, insisting the three points are critical to the club's push up the standings.

The Ikon Allah Boys claimed victory at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna last weekend. Nafiu Obalowu broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, and Bashir Musa extended the lead with just eight minutes left in normal time. Basit Ayinde pulled one back for Ikorodu City deep in stoppage time, but Niger Tornadoes held firm to take all three points.

A win prepared like a cup final

Tyabo left no doubt about how seriously his squad approached the fixture, comparing their mentality to that demanded in knockout football.